U.S. patent number 10,327,326 [Application Number 15/819,243] was granted by the patent office on 2019-06-18 for electronic device with encapsulated circuit assembly having an integrated metal layer.
This patent grant is currently assigned to Apple Inc.. The grantee listed for this patent is Apple Inc.. Invention is credited to Brad G. Boozer, Steven P. Cardinali, Colin M. Ely.
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United States Patent |
10,327,326 |
Boozer , et al. |
June 18, 2019 |
Electronic device with encapsulated circuit assembly having an
integrated metal layer
Abstract
Embodiments are directed to a circuit assembly for an electronic
device having an electromagnetic shield that defines a sensing
element or contact pad along an outer surface of the assembly. The
circuit assembly includes a group of electrical components attached
to a surface of a printed circuit board. A molded structure may
encapsulate the group of electrical components and at least a
portion of the surface of the printed circuit board. A metal layer
may be formed over an outer surface of the molded structure. The
metal layer may define both a shield portion configured to provide
shielding for one or more of the group of electrical components and
an electrode configured to detect an input applied to the
electronic device.
Inventors: |
Boozer; Brad G. (Saratoga,
CA), Ely; Colin M. (Sunnyvale, CA), Cardinali; Steven
P. (Campbell, CA) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Apple Inc. |
Cupertino |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Apple Inc. (Cupertino,
CA)
|
Family
ID: |
65360841 |
Appl.
No.: |
15/819,243 |
Filed: |
November 21, 2017 |
Prior Publication Data
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Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
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US 20190059152 A1 |
Feb 21, 2019 |
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Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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62546875 |
Aug 17, 2017 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H05K
1/0216 (20130101); H05K 1/185 (20130101); H05K
5/0017 (20130101); H05K 9/0026 (20130101); H03K
17/962 (20130101); H05K 3/284 (20130101); H05K
5/0086 (20130101); H05K 5/064 (20130101); H05K
1/028 (20130101); H05K 2203/1316 (20130101); H05K
1/181 (20130101); H03K 2217/960765 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
H05K
1/00 (20060101); H05K 9/00 (20060101); H05K
5/06 (20060101); H05K 5/00 (20060101); H03K
17/96 (20060101); H05K 1/18 (20060101); H05K
1/02 (20060101); H05K 3/28 (20060101) |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
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JP |
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WO03/081976 |
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WO |
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WO |
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WO2013/035282 |
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Mar 2013 |
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WO |
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WO2014/036558 |
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Mar 2014 |
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WO |
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Primary Examiner: Semenenko; Yuriy
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Kilpatrick Townsend and Stockton,
LLP
Parent Case Text
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)
This application is a nonprovisional patent application of and
claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
62/546,875, filed Aug. 17, 2017 and titled "Electronic Device with
Encapsulated Circuit Assembly Having an Integrated Metal Layer,"
the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference
in its entirety.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A circuit assembly for an electronic device, comprising: a
printed circuit board; a group of electrical components attached to
a surface of the printed circuit board; a molded structure
encapsulating the group of electrical components and at least a
portion of the surface of the printed circuit board; and a metal
layer formed over an outer surface of the molded structure and
defining: a shield portion configured to provide shielding for one
or more of the group of electrical components; and an electrode
electrically isolated from the shield portion and configured to
detect an input applied to the electronic device.
2. The circuit assembly of claim 1, wherein the electrode forms a
capacitive sensing element that is configured to detect a touch
applied to the electronic device.
3. The circuit assembly of claim 1, wherein: the electronic device
comprises a sensing layer that is electrically coupled to the
electrode of the circuit assembly; and the input comprises a force
applied to the electronic device; and a capacitance between the
sensing layer and the electrode changes in response to the force
applied to the electronic device.
4. The circuit assembly of claim 1, wherein: the shield portion and
the electrode are formed from a common material; and the shield
portion and the electrode are arranged substantially coplanar along
the outer surface of the molded structure.
5. The circuit assembly of claim 1, wherein: the electrode is a
first electrode; the metal layer defines a second electrode
separated from the shield portion; the first electrode and the
second electrode are separated from the shield portion by a gap;
and the circuit assembly further comprises an electrical trace
extending between the first electrode and the second electrode and
positioned within the gap.
6. The circuit assembly of claim 5, wherein: the molded structure
is formed from a plastic doped with a metal material; and the
electrical trace is formed along the outer surface of the molded
structure from a portion of the metal material remaining after a
portion of the plastic has been ablated.
7. The circuit assembly of claim 1, further comprising:
electrically conductive vias extending through the molded structure
electrically coupling the electrode with one or more electrical
components of the group of electrical components.
8. The circuit assembly of claim 1, wherein: the surface of the
printed circuit board is a first surface; the printed circuit board
further defines a second surface opposite the first surface; the
molded structure is a first molded structure formed at least
partially over the first surface; and a second molded structure is
formed at least partially over the second surface.
9. The circuit assembly of claim 1, wherein: the circuit assembly
further comprises a flexible circuit; and the flexible circuit is
electrically coupled to the metal layer at a first end and
electrically coupled to an element of the printed circuit board at
a second end opposite to the first end.
10. A wearable electronic device, comprising: an enclosure; and a
circuit assembly positioned within the enclosure and comprising: a
printed circuit board; a group of electrical components attached
and electrically coupled to the printed circuit board; a molded
structure encapsulating the group of electrical components; and a
metal layer formed over the molded structure and defining: an
electromagnetic shield for one or more electrical components of the
group of electrical components; and an electrode electrically
isolated from the electromagnetic shield and configured to
electrically couple to an electrical component of the wearable
electronic device that is distinct from the circuit assembly.
11. The wearable electronic device of claim 10, wherein: the
electrode forms a sensing element configured to detect an input
received along an exterior surface of the wearable electronic
device; and one or more of the group of electrical components are
responsive to the detected input.
12. The wearable electronic device of claim 11, wherein: the
enclosure defines an opening; the wearable electronic device
further comprises a touch sensitive display at least partially
positioned within the opening and configured to depict a graphical
output of the wearable electronic device; the electrical component
of the wearable electronic device is a sensing layer of the touch
sensitive display; and the graphical output is responsive to the
detected input.
13. The wearable electronic device of claim 12, wherein: the
sensing layer moves inward toward the circuit assembly in response
to receiving the input; and the movement of the sensing layer
results in a change in capacitance between the sensing layer and
the electrode.
14. The wearable electronic device of claim 10, wherein the
electrode defines a contact pad that is directly coupled with the
electrical component of the electronic device.
15. The wearable electronic device of claim 10, wherein the
electrical component of the wearable electronic device is an
antenna configured to receive a wireless communication signal.
16. The wearable electronic device of claim 10, wherein: the
wearable electronic device comprises a band coupled to the
enclosure and configured to secure the wearable electronic device
to a user; and the electrode is configured to detect when the
wearable electronic device is secured to the user.
17. A method of forming a circuit assembly, comprising: forming a
molded structure over a group of electrical components positioned
along a printed circuit board to encapsulate the group of
electrical components within the molded structure; and forming a
metal layer along an outer surface of the molded structure to
define: (1) an electrode electrically coupled to the group of
electrical components, and (2) a shield portion electrically
isolated from the electrode and configured to shield the group of
electrical components from electromagnetic interference.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein forming the metal layer further
comprises: sputtering an electrically conductive material onto a
surface of the molded structure.
19. The method of claim 17, wherein forming the metal layer further
comprises forming an electrical trace to the electrode.
20. The method of claim 17, wherein: forming the molded structure
further comprises flowing a plastic doped with a metal material
along one or more surfaces of the group of electrical components;
and forming the metal layer further comprises forming electrical
traces along a gap between the electrode and the shield portion,
the electrical traces generated by laser treating a portion of the
plastic.
Description
BACKGROUND
Due to the space constraints in many modern day electronic devices,
it may be necessary or beneficial to shield a group of electronic
components from another group of components or from external
interference or sources of noise. However, layout and packaging
constraints of some compact electronic devices may make it
difficult to shield some electronic components. Thus, there is a
need for systems and techniques that can be used to integrate
electromagnetic shields and other conductive elements with the
other electronic components to reduce the size of the electronic
device without limiting the functionality or reducing the
durability components or the device.
SUMMARY
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a circuit
assembly having an electromagnetic shield with an integrated
contact pad or electrode. In some embodiments, the circuit assembly
is encapsulated in a molded structure that protects the electronic
components of the circuit assembly. A metal layer may be formed
over the molded structure and may serve as a shield, contact pad,
or electrode for the electronic device.
In a first aspect, the present disclosure includes a circuit
assembly for an electronic device. The circuit assembly includes a
printed circuit board. The circuit assembly further includes a
group of electrical components attached to a surface of the printed
circuit board. The circuit assembly further includes a molded
structure encapsulating the group of electrical components and at
least a portion of the surface of the printed circuit board. The
circuit assembly further includes a metal layer formed over an
outer surface of the molded structure and defining a shield portion
configured to provide shielding for one or more of the group of
electrical components. The metal layer may further define an
electrode configured to detect an input applied to the electronic
device.
In a second aspect, the present invention includes a wearable
electronic device. The wearable electronic device include an
enclosure. The wearable electronic device further includes a
circuit assembly positioned within the enclosure. The circuit
assembly further includes a printed circuit board. The circuit
assembly may further includes a group of electrical components
attached and electrically coupled to the printed circuit board. The
circuit assembly further includes a molded structure encapsulating
the group of electrical components. The circuit assembly further
includes a metal layer formed over the molded structure and
defining an electromagnetic shield for one or more electrical
components of the group of electrical components. The metal layer
may further define an electrode configured to electrically couple
to an electrical component of the wearable electronic device that
is distinct from the circuit assembly.
In a third aspect, the present invention includes a method of
forming a circuit assembly. The method includes forming a molded
structure over a group of electrical components positioned along a
printed circuit board to encapsulate the group of electrical
components within the molded structure. The method further includes
forming a metal layer along an outer surface of the molded
structure to define an electrode electrically coupled to the group
of electrical components. Forming the metal layer may also define a
shield portion configured to shield the group of electrical
components from electromagnetic interference.
In addition to the exemplary aspects and embodiments described
above, further aspects and embodiments will become apparent by
reference to the drawings and by study of the following
description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed
description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein
like reference numerals designate like elements.
FIG. 1 depicts an example electronic device;
FIG. 2 depicts an exploded view of the example electronic device of
FIG. 1 having a circuit assembly;
FIG. 3A depicts a cross-sectional view of the circuit assembly of
FIG. 2, taken along section A-A of FIG. 2;
FIG. 3B depicts a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the
circuit assembly of FIG. 2, taken along second A-A of FIG. 2;
FIG. 3C depicts a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the
circuit assembly of FIG. 2, taken along section A-A of FIG. 2;
FIG. 3D depicts a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the
circuit assembly of FIG. 2, taken along section A-A of FIG. 2;
FIG. 4A depicts a cross-sectional view of the example electronic
device of FIG. 2 in a first configuration, taken along section B-B
of FIG. 2;
FIG. 4B depicts a cross-sectional view of the example electronic
device of FIG. 2 in a second configuration, taken along section B-B
of FIG. 2;
FIG. 5A depicts a cross-sectional top view of an embodiment of a
circuit assembly;
FIG. 5B depicts a cross-sectional top view of another embodiment of
a circuit assembly;
FIG. 5C depicts a cross-sectional top view of another embodiment of
a circuit assembly;
FIG. 5D depicts a cross-sectional top view of another embodiment of
a circuit assembly;
FIG. 6A depicts another sample electronic device having a circuit
assembly;
FIG. 6B depicts a cross-sectional view of the sample electronic
device of FIG. 6A, taken along section C-C of FIG. 6A;
FIG. 7A depicts another sample electronic device having a circuit
assembly;
FIG. 7B depicts a cross-sectional view of the sample electronic
device of FIG. 7A, taken along section D-D of FIG. 7A;
FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of a method of forming a circuit assembly;
and
FIG. 9 illustrates a functional block diagram of an electronic
device.
The use of cross-hatching or shading in the accompanying figures is
generally provided to clarify the boundaries between adjacent
elements and also to facilitate legibility of the figures.
Accordingly, neither the presence nor the absence of cross-hatching
or shading conveys or indicates any preference or requirement for
particular materials, material properties, element proportions,
element dimensions, commonalties of similarly illustrated elements,
or any other characteristic, attribute, or property for any element
illustrated in the accompanying figures.
Additionally, it should be understood that the proportions and
dimensions (either relative or absolute) of the various features
and elements (and collections and groupings thereof) and the
boundaries, separations, and positional relationships presented
therebetween, are provided in the accompanying figures merely to
facilitate an understanding of the various embodiments described
herein and, accordingly, may not necessarily be presented or
illustrated to scale, and are not intended to indicate any
preference or requirement for an illustrated embodiment to the
exclusion of embodiments described with reference thereto.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The description that follows includes sample systems, methods, and
apparatuses that embody various elements of the present disclosure.
However, it should be understood that the described disclosure may
be practiced in a variety of forms in addition to those described
herein.
The present disclosure describes systems, devices, and techniques
related to circuit assemblies for an electronic device and, more
particularly, to a circuit assembly having a molded layer
encapsulating electronic components of the circuit assembly. The
molded layer may provide a moisture barrier and protect the
electronic components from contamination or corrosion. The circuit
assembly also has a metal layer formed over the molded layer that
defines both an electromagnetic shield and one or more electrodes.
The electromagnetic shield or shield portion may inhibit
propagation of electromagnetic signals into or from the electronic
components of the circuit assembly. The electrode may be
electrically coupled with one or more of a group of electrical
components of the circuit assembly, which may be partially or fully
encapsulated in a molded structure of the circuit assembly. In some
cases, the electrode may form, or be a component of, a sensing
element of the circuit assembly, such as a capacitive sensor,
optical sensor, strain gauge, or the like. The electrode may also
form a contact pad, terminal, or other conductive element used to
facilitate an electrical connection with a separate element that is
distinct from the circuit assembly, such as other components or
assemblies of an electronic device. By forming the shield portion
and the electrode with a metal layer positioned over the molded
structure, the size and packaging of various components of the
electronic device may be optimized, while enhancing the
adaptability and functionality of the circuit assembly within the
electronic device.
Broadly, the circuit assembly may include various electrical
components arranged along a printed circuit board (PCB), electrical
substrate, and/or other structure electrically coupling the
electrical components. For example, the electrical components may
be processing units, controllers, and/or other integrated circuits
used to control various aspects of an electronic device. The
circuit assembly may also include electrical components that
perform various communication functions including, for example,
wireless transceivers, antennas, and specialized communication
integrated circuits. In this regard, the electrical components may
be configured to cooperate with other components or assemblies of
an electronic device, including sensors, switches, processing units
or the like. The electrical components may be susceptible, in some
cases, to moisture, contaminates, electromagnetic interference
and/or other factors, and thus may be vulnerable when exposed.
The molded structure of the circuit assembly may be formed or
molded over some or all of the electrical components (and
associated region of the printed circuit board) to form a
protective barrier that protects the electrical components from
moisture or other potential contaminates. The molded structure may
also provide a structural support for the electrical components
and/or allow the electrical components to be more tightly spaced
along the substrate. The molded structure may be formed from an
injection moldable plastic or other suitable polymer; however,
other materials are contemplated including ceramic and composite
materials. In some cases, the molded layer may include a plastic
doped with a metal material that may be used to form metal traces
along the molded structure, as described herein, for example, using
a laser direct structuring (LDS) technique.
The metal layer of the circuit assembly may be formed over the
molded structure (and associated group of electrical components)
and mitigate electromagnetic interference while forming an
electrical contact or sensing element for the circuit assembly. In
particular, the shield portion, formed along the surface of the
molded structure, may be electrically isolated from the electrical
components and substantially interrupt electromagnetic signals
propagating into and out of the circuit assembly. The electrode,
formed along the same or common surface of the molded structure as
the shield portion, may be electrically coupled with one or more of
the electrical components, for example, via an electrically
conductive path between the electrode and the substrate (e.g.,
using conductive vias, flexible circuits, or the like). This may
allow the electrode to facilitate a connection between one or more
of the electrical components and another assembly or component of
the electronic device and/or define a sensing element along an
outer surface of the molded structure. In some cases, the electrode
may be electrically coupled to the electrical substrate (e.g., the
printed circuit board) without being coupled to one or more of the
electrical components of the circuit assembly. For example,
electrical signals from the electrode may be passed through the
electrical substrate to a separate and/or distinct component
without passing through or being connected to one or more of the
electrical components of the circuit assembly.
To facilitate the foregoing, the shield portion and the electrode
may be separated from one another along the surface of the molded
structure. In particular, the metal layer may define a void, space,
or gap between the shield portion and the electrode. This may
electrically isolate the shield portion and the electrode from one
another such that the shield portion inhibits electromagnetic
signals while the electrode is electrically coupled with the
electrical components of the circuit assembly. In some cases, the
void may be filled with a dialectic material. A size of the void or
the gap may be manipulated to control the inhibition of the
electromagnetic signals by the metal layer. This may be beneficial,
for example, where the circuit assembly is positioned proximate an
auxiliary component of an electronic device (such as an antenna)
that may be sensitive to electromagnetic signals emanating from the
circuit assembly. The size of the void or the gap may also be
manipulated to accommodate electrical traces, terminals, hot bars,
and/or other components used to connect multiple different
electrodes with one another and/or another component or assembly of
the electronic device.
The metal layer may be formed from any appropriate electrically
conductive material using a variety of techniques. As one
possibility, the metal layer may be formed along and/or on an outer
surface of the molded structure using a sputter deposition or other
physical vapor deposition technique, as described herein, although
other techniques are possible. The sputtering, deposition, and/or
other technique may be selectively controlled so that the metal
layer defines the shield portion, electrode(s), and/or void or gaps
of appropriate size. As such, the metal layer may be formed over
the molded structure and define the corresponding shapes and
features. This may be facilitated by use of a masking layer;
however, in some cases, a masking layer may not be required.
Additionally or alternatively, the metal layer may be formed over
the molded structure as a substantially uniform or continuous
layer. Etching, or other removal process, may subsequently be
employed to form the voids or gaps in the metal layer, thereby
defining the resulting shield portion and electrode.
The circuit assembly may be used with a variety of electronic
devices, including wearable electronic devices, such as a watch.
Accordingly, the electrode may be used to form, or be a component
of, various sensing elements, as may be appropriate for a
particular application. To illustrate, in an embodiment where the
electronic device is a watch, the electronic device may include a
touch sensitive display having a graphical output. The circuit
assembly may be arranged within a watch body or enclosure such that
the electrode is capacitively coupled with a sensing layer or
element or the touch sensitive display. The circuit assembly may
thus detect a change in capacitance caused or induced by an input
received along the touch sensitive display, which may allow the
graphical output to be modified based on the received input. As
another example, the electronic device may include a band coupled
with the enclosure and configured to secure the watch to a user.
The circuit assembly may be arranged within the enclosure to detect
a position of the user relative to the watch band, for example,
which may be used to control or inform one or more functions of the
electronic device. For example, the graphical output of the touch
sensitive display may be manipulated in a specified manner when the
user is wearing the watch.
It will be appreciated that the foregoing example sensing elements
are presented for purposes of illustration only. Other sensing
elements and configurations are contemplated and discussed herein,
including using the electrode to define, or form a component or
element of, an antenna of an electronic device. The antenna of the
electronic device need not be formed on or with the circuit
assembly. In other cases, the electrode provides an electrical
terminal or contact pad that may be used to connect the circuit
assembly with an auxiliary component of the electronic device, such
as an antenna arranged within a device enclosure external to, or
separated from, the circuit assembly. More generally, the electrode
may form a terminal, connection node, or otherwise also be used to
connect the circuit assembly to other types or auxiliary components
with the electronic device, including charging assemblies, other
sensors, processing units, and so on. Further, the electronic
device is not limited to wearable electronic devices. The circuit
assembly may be used in substantially any appropriate electronic
device including smart phones and notebook computers, among other
appropriate devices.
Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which
assist in illustrating various features of the present disclosure.
The following description is presented for purposes of illustration
and description. Furthermore, the description is not intended to
limit the inventive aspects to the forms disclosed herein.
Consequently, variations and modifications commensurate with the
following teachings, and skill and knowledge of the relevant art,
are within the scope of the present inventive aspects.
FIG. 1 depicts an electronic device 104. The electronic device 104
includes a circuit assembly (e.g., circuit assembly 124 of FIG. 2),
such as the circuit assembly generally discussed above and
described in greater detail below. The circuit assembly may include
a metal layer that forms an electromagnetic shield and also defines
an electrode or contact of the circuit assembly.
In a non-limiting example, as shown in FIG. 1, the electronic
device 104 may be a wearable electronic device, such as a smart
watch. The electronic device 104 may include an enclosure 108 that
defines a watch body. The enclosure 108 may define various openings
configured to receive or partially receive components of the watch.
As shown in FIG. 1, the electronic device 104 may include a display
112 at least partially positioned within a first opening of the
enclosure 108 defined along a top surface. The display 112 may be a
touch sensitive display configured to depict a graphical output of
the electronic device 104 (e.g., including indicia, symbols, text,
icons, notifications, and so on). The electronic device may also
include a crown 116 at least partially positioned within a second
opening of the enclosure 108 defined along a side surface. The
crown 116 may be configured to receive a translational and
rotational input that are used to control a function of the
electronic device 104. For example, the graphical output of the
display 112 may be modified in a first manner in response to
translation input at the crown 116 and the graphical output of the
display 112 may be modified in a second manner in response to
rotational input at the crown 116. The electronic device 104 may
also include a band 120. The band 120 may be coupled along an
exterior surface of the enclosure 108 and configured to secure the
electronic device 104 to a user.
It should be noted that the electronic device 104 may also include
various other components, such as one or more ports (e.g., charging
ports, data transfer ports, or the like), additional input/output
buttons, and so on. Further, it is understood that the electronic
device 104 may be any suitable device having a circuit assembly, as
described herein. Other example electronic devices include notebook
computers, desktop computers, smart phones, tablets, portable media
players, other watches, pencils, and/or other appropriate
electronic devices, including other wearable devices. Other
examples of electronic devices may include health monitoring
devices, digital cameras, printers, scanners, security systems or
devices, or electronics for automobiles, building, structures,
among other electronic devices. As such, the discussion of any
electronic device, such as electronic device 104, is meant as
illustrative only.
FIG. 2 depicts an exploded view of the electronic device 104. As
shown in FIG. 2, the electronic device 104 includes a circuit
assembly 124. The circuit assembly 124 may be operatively coupled
to various components of the electronic device 104 and may function
as a main logic board or main controller for the electronic device
104. In the present example, the circuit assembly 124 may be
operatively coupled to the display 112. The circuit assembly 124
may also be operatively coupled to an internal power source (such
as a battery) and/or charging assembly. The circuit assembly 124
may also be operatively coupled to various other components and
assemblies of the electronic device 104, including various sensors,
antennas, processing units, speakers, buttons, microphones,
biosensors, light sources, cameras, and so on, as described in
greater detail below. While FIG. 2 depicts the electronic device
104 as having a single circuit assembly (e.g., circuit assembly
124), some implementations may include multiple circuit assemblies
that are interconnected with each other and with other various
components of the electronic device 104.
The circuit assembly 124 may include various electrical components
that are used to control a function of the electronic device 104
and/or perform various communication functions. This may include,
without limitations, processing units, controllers, integrated
circuits, antennas, wireless transceivers, and so on, including
various combinations thereof. For example, the circuit assembly 124
may include a group of electrical components 128 (shown in
phantom). The group of electrical components 128 may be
electrically coupled with one another within the circuit assembly
124 and be responsive to input applied to the electronic device
104, as described herein. Rather than remain exposed within an
interior volume of the enclosure 108, the group of electrical
components 128 may be encapsulated with one or more layers of the
circuit assembly, including various molding, insulating, and/or
electromagnetic shielding layers, as may be appropriate for a given
application. For example, the group of electrical components 128
may be susceptible to various environmental and design
considerations including moisture, dust, debris, contaminants,
electromagnetic interference, sizing constrains, and so on; the
various layers of the circuit assembly 124 may function to mitigate
these considerations.
In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the group of electrical components 128
may be arranged along a surface of a substrate 132. The substrate
132 may be a printed circuit board, electrical substrate, and/or
other appropriate mounting surface for the group of electrical
components 128. For example, the substrate 132 may be a printed
circuit board formed from a substantially rigid and optionally
planar structure having features that engage (and electrically
couple) the group of electrical components 128 and the substrate
132 to one another. As such, the substrate 132 may include
electrical traces that contact the group of electrical components
128 and electrically couple the group of electrical components 128
to the substrate 132. The substrate 132 may be constructed from a
variety of materials, including plastics, composites, synthetics,
and so on, including materials that may be translucent or otherwise
allow light to propagate therethrough.
The substrate 132 may be configured for attachment along an
interior surface of the enclosure 108. For example, the substrate
132 may include engagement features 134. The engagement features
134 may be protrusions, eyelets, threaded features, and/or other
structures (which may or may not include an opening) that are
configured to secure the substrate 132 within the enclosure 108. In
the embodiment of FIG. 2, the engagement features 134 are shown
extending away from a major surface of the substrate 132; however,
in other embodiments, the engagement features may extend in other
directions, including extending directly toward a bottom and/or top
interior surface of the enclosure 108.
To facilitate the foregoing, the enclosure 108 may include
retention features 110 positioned along an interior surface 111.
The retention features 110 may be bosses, pins, studs and/or a
variety of other features that cooperate with the engagement
features 134 of the circuit assembly 124 to secure the circuit
assembly 124 within the enclosure 108. In the embodiment of FIG. 2,
the retention features 110 may be bosses that are received by
openings in the engagement features 134 of the circuit assembly
124. In some cases, the retention features 110 and the engagement
features 134 may be or have corresponding threaded features that
are used to secure the circuit assembly 124 (optionally removeable)
along the interior surface 111 of the enclosure 108. Further, while
the retention features 110 are shown along the interior surface 111
forming a bottom interior surface of the enclosure 108, it will be
appreciated that the retention features 110 may be positioned along
substantially any interior surface of the enclosure 108. For
example, the retention features 110 may additionally or
alternatively be positioned along interior sidewalls and/or
interior top surfaces of the enclosure 108, which may facilitate
arranging the circuit assembly 124 in various configurations within
the enclosure 108 (e.g., such as arranging the circuit assembly 124
proximate the display 112, as described with respect to FIG.
4B).
The group of electrical components 128 and the substrate 132 may be
partially or fully encapsulated within a molded structure. As shown
in FIG. 2, the circuit assembly 124 may include a molded structure
136 formed or molded over some or all of the group of electrical
components 128 and the substrate 132. The molded structure 136 may
form a protective barrier over the group of electrical components
128 and the substrate 132 that inhibits moisture, debris, and other
potential contaminants from reaching the group of electrical
components 128 and/or other components or assemblies of the circuit
assembly 124. The molded structure 136 may also be a substantially
rigid structure (when hardened) that provides structural support
for the group of electrical components 128 within the circuit
assembly 124. This may allow the circuit assembly 124 to include
multiple, tightly packing electrical components along the surface
of the substrate 132. This may be beneficial, for example, in the
context of a portable and/or wearable electronic device, in which
design and packaging constraints may limit the available footprint
for the circuit assembly 124 within the electronic device 104. The
molded structure 136 may also help reduce the risk of damage caused
by a physical impact or other form of mechanical shock.
As shown in FIG. 2, the molded structure 136 may be formed
completely over the group of electrical components 128 and the
substrate 132; however, this is not required. In some cases, the
molded structure 136 may be formed over selected regions of the
electrical component 138 and/or the substrate 132. For example, the
molded structure 136 may cover a center region of the circuit
assembly 124 (encapsulating the group of electrical components
128), while a periphery of the substrate 132 may remain exposed.
This may facilitate physically attaching the substrate 132 to the
enclosure 108. In other cases, only a portion of the group of
electrical components 128 may be covered by the molded structure
136. Further, in cases where the circuit assembly 124 includes
multiple electrical components, a subset of the electrical
components may be encapsulated (or partially encapsulated) while
others remain exposed on the substrate 132.
The circuit assembly 124 shows the molded structure 136 covering or
encapsulating a top surface of the substrate 132. Other embodiments
are contemplated, however, in which the molded structure 136
additionally or alternatively encapsulates or covers a side and/or
bottom surface of the substrate 132 (e.g., as described with
respect to FIG. 3D). Further, as explained in greater detail below,
while the embodiment of FIG. 2 shows the top surface of the
substrate 132 (and associated portions of the molded structure 136)
positioned proximate the display 112, the circuit assembly 124 may
be arranged in substantially any appropriate configuration with the
enclosure 108, including configurations in which the top surface of
the substrate 132 (and associated portions of the molded structure
136) are positioned proximate the interior surface 111.
Accordingly, the circuit assembly 124 may be arranged such that the
molded structure 136 is positioned proximate to or extend along any
appropriate surface or component of the electronic device 104.
The molded structure 136 may be formed from a variety of moldable
or castable materials, including plastics, resins, ceramics,
composites, and so on. Accordingly, the molded structure 136 may be
formed by flowing a substantially liquefied or viscous material
over one or more surfaces of the circuit assembly 124. For example,
material may be introduced into a form containing the group of
electrical components 128 and/or the substrate 132 and caused to
harden or solidify around one or more surfaces of the group of
electrical components 128 and/or the substrate 132. This may allow
the molded structure 136 to encapsulate the group of electrical
components 128 on the surface of the substrate 132. Such techniques
may also allow the molded structure 136 to be positioned within
narrow regions, gaps, spaces, or the like of the circuit assembly
124 (e.g., such as between a narrow passage between electrical
components positioned along the substrate 132), thereby
facilitating use of the molded structure 136 as a structural
component of the circuit assembly 124, particularly along complex
or irregular geometries of the circuit assembly 124.
The molded structure 136 may, in some cases, be formed form a
dielectric material to prevent or reduce electrical conduction
between the electronic components 128. In some instances, the
molded structure 136 may also be configured to form part or all of
the metal layer of the circuit assembly 124. For example, the
molded structure 136 may be formed from a plastic doped with a
metal material. The metal-doped plastic material may be
substantially any plastic material having a relatively small amount
of metallic material added to the plastic material. The metallic
material may be activated by a laser directed along a surface of
the metal-doped plastic material to form the metal layer. The metal
layer may include a shield portion, one or more electrodes and/or a
metalized or conductive path along a surface of the material. In
some instances, this technique may be used to create electrical
traces along the surface of the molded structure 136, as described
in greater detail below with respect to FIG. 5A. For example, the
electrical traces may be formed on an outer surface of the molded
structure 136 from a portion of the metal material remaining after
a portion of the plastic material has been ablated. Additionally or
alternatively, such techniques may also be used to define an
electromagnetic shield, contact pad, sensing element, or other
feature of the circuit assembly 124.
The circuit assembly 124 may be configured to inhibit the
propagation of electromagnetic signals within the electronic device
104. For example, the circuit assembly 124 may include an
electromagnetic shield formed partially or fully around the group
of electrical components 128, the substrate 132, and/or the molded
structure 136 that may block or limit electromagnetic signals or
other radiation from entering or exiting the circuit assembly. The
electromagnetic shield may also be tailored or tuned to limit
electromagnetic interference to a specified level, which may be
beneficial for auxiliary components of the electronic device 104
(separate from the circuit assembly 124), such as an antenna,
sensor, processing unit, and so on that operate optimally at the
specified level of interference, as described herein. Further, the
electromagnetic shield includes an electrode (e.g., integrated
contact pad or sensing element) of the circuit assembly 124. This
may allow the circuit assembly 124 to be both electromagnetically
shielded (to various degrees) and have a contact pad or sensing
element positioned along an outer surface of the circuit assembly
124, such as an outer surface of the molded structure 136.
To facilitate the foregoing, the circuit assembly 124 includes a
metal layer 140. The metal layer 140 may be an electrically
conductive layer formed around the molded structure 136. The metal
layer 140 may be separated from the group of electrical components
128 and the substrate 132 by the molded structure 136. A portion of
the metal layer 140 may be electrically isolated from the group of
electrical components 128 and the substrate 132 and form the
electromagnetic shield, while another portion of the metal layer
140 may be electrically coupled to a group of electrical components
128 and the substrate 132 and form the electrode.
Accordingly, the metal layer 140 may define a shield portion 144
and one or more electrodes, such as electrode 148 shown in FIG. 2.
The shield portion 144 and the electrode 148 may be formed or
positioned along a common surface of the molded structure 136 and
separated from one another by a void or gap within the metal layer
140. As shown in FIG. 2, the shield portion 144 and the electrode
148 are separated from one another by a void 152. The void 152
(also referred to herein as a space or gap) may electrically
isolate the shield portion 144 and the electrode 148. In some
cases, the void 152 may be filled with a dialectic material and/or
include or be positioned along electrical traces of the circuit
assembly 124, for example, as described with respect to FIG.
5A.
The shield portion 144 of the metal layer 140 may be tuned to limit
electromagnetic signal interference within the circuit assembly 124
and more generally within the electronic device 104. For example,
the shield portion 144 may be constructed according to various
material and/or geometric parameters that may control the
reflection and absorption of energy across the metal layer. Such
parameters may include, without limitation, the thickness,
conductivity, and the continuity of the shield portion 144.
Accordingly, the shield portion 144 may inhibit a predefined level
of electromagnetic signals, as may be appropriate for the specific
configuration of the electronic device 104. For example, a
specified level of electromagnetic interference may be acceptable
based on the design and performance characteristics of various
other components and assemblies with the electronic device 104, and
thus, the shield portion 144 may be constructed to meet the
specified level. The material and geometric properties of the
shield portion 144 may also be at least partially influenced by a
size and/or shape of the electrode 148. For example, the available
footprint of the shield portion 144 along the molded structure 136
may be limited by a size and shape of the electrode 148 (also
positioned along the molded structure 136), and thus various other
parameters may be tuned (e.g., thickness, conductivity, and so on)
such that the shield portion 144 controls electromagnetic signals
at a desired level. Depending on the implementation, the shield
portion 144 may be electrically grounded, connected to an
electrical voltage source, or be allowed to electrically float.
The electrode 148 of the metal layer 140 may be electrically
coupled with the group of electrical components 128 that are
positioned within (or partially within) the molded structure 136.
Broadly, the electrode 148 may be an electrical conductive surface
or element positioned along or formed into the molded structure 136
and that is configured to receive an input or signal, such as an
electrical, optical, magnetic, or capacitive signal and so on. The
electrode 148 may be electrically coupled with the group of
electrical components 128 such that the group of electrical
components 128 is responsive to, or otherwise receives or
registers, the input received by the electrode 148. Conversely, the
electrode 148 and the group of electrical components 128 may be
electrically coupled such that the electrode 148 receives or is
otherwise responsive to a signal generated by the group of
electrical components 128 and/or other component or feature of the
substrate 132. As such, despite being fully or partially
encapsulated within the molded structure 136, the group of
electrical components 128 may be coupled with various components
and assemblies of the electronic device 104 and/or be used to sense
various internal and/or external environments or signals of the
electronic device 104 using the electrode 148, as described
herein.
The electrode 148 and the group of electrical components 128 may
thus be electrically coupled in a variety of manners to facilitate
the foregoing functionality. In one embodiment, the electrode 148
and the group of electrical components 128 may be electrically
connected by a conductive path. This may take numerous forms, and
various embodiments of such are described herein. As possible
examples, the circuit assembly 124 may include electrically
conductive vias extending substantially through the molded
structure 136 and electrically connecting the substrate 132 and the
electrode 148 (e.g., as described with respect to FIG. 3B) and/or a
flexible circuit positioned along (or otherwise electrically
coupled with) the electrode 148 and extending along a curve around
the molded structure 136 (e.g., as described with respect to FIG.
3C). In other circumstances, the electrode 148 and the group of
electrical components 128 may additionally or alternately be
capacitively, magnetically, and/or optically coupled to one
another. For example, the electrode 148 may form, or be a component
of, a capacitive, magnetic, or optical-based sensor that cooperates
with the group of electrical components 128 in a corresponding
manner to detect an input.
Additionally or alternatively, the electrode 148 may also define a
sensing element. The sensing element may be formed along an outer
surface of the circuit assembly 124 and be configured to detect one
or more inputs, as described herein. For example, the electrode 148
may be, or form a component of, a capacitive sensor, optical
sensors, antenna, strain gauge, magnetic sensors, among various
other possibilities. As such, the group of electrical components
128 may be responsive to (and/or used in conjunction with) the
electrode 148 to detect various inputs associated with the
electronic device 104, despite being partially or fully
encapsulated within the molded structure 136. Possible inputs may
include a touch and/or force input received along a portion of the
enclosure 108 (such as a sidewall or back surface), the display
112, and/or other region or electronic device 104. This may also
include externals or wireless signals or inputs such as an input
from an interconnected charging assembly and/or a wireless signal
(where the electrode 148 forms an antenna). As such, the electrode
148 may be employed in a variety of configurations within an
electronic device 104 in order to facilitate various communication
and control functions of the electronic device 104 (e.g., as
described in greater detail below with respect to FIGS. 4A and
4B).
The circuit assembly 124 may not be limited to defining a single
sensing element or establishing a single electrical connection with
another component or assembly of the electronic device 104. For
example, the electrode 148 may be one of a group of electrode pads
(e.g., first electrode, second electrode, third electrode, and so
on) defined by the metal layer 140 along a surface of the molded
structure 136. Each of the first, second, third, etc. electrodes
may define a distinct sensing element and/or contact pads. As one
possibility, a first electrode may define a sensing element (e.g.,
such as a capacitive, optical, strain, magnetic sensor, or the
like) and a second electrode may define a contact pad used to
electrically couple the group of electrical components 128 with
another component or assembly of the electronic device 104. As
shown in the embodiment of FIG. 2, the electrode 148 may be one of
a group of four contact pads; however, other embodiments, including
circuit assemblies having more or fewer than four contacts pads,
are possible.
The shield portion 144 and the electrode 148 may be formed or
positioned along a common or substantially continuous surface of
the molded structure 136. For example, the shield portion 144 and
the electrode 148 may be formed directly on or along a surface of
the molded structure 136 opposite the substrate 132 by a deposition
technique, including a sputter deposition or other physical vapor
deposition process or technique. As such, a masking layer may be
used to define the voids 152 separating the shield portion 144 and
the electrode 148; however, this is not required. The voids 152 may
be etched or excavated as needed to define the various features.
Printing, coating, or plating may also be appropriate to apply the
metal layer 140. Additionally or alternatively, as described above,
the molded structure 136 may be formed from a metal-doped plastic
material. As such, in some embodiments, the metal layer 140 may be
formed from the metal-doped plastic material of the molded
structure 136 by using a laser direct structuring (LDS) technique.
In other cases, the metal layer 140 may be a separate substrate,
film, sheet, or other layer applied to a target surface or region
of the molded structure 136.
The circuit assembly 124 may be arranged in a variety of manners
within the enclosure 108 based at least in part on a configuration
of the electrode 148 to detect a specified input. In the embodiment
depicted in FIG. 2, the electrode 148 is positioned proximate
display 112, and thus may be used to detect an input along the
display 112, such as a force input, as one example. In other
implementations, such as that described with respect to FIG. 4A,
the electrode 148 may be positioned proximate the interior surface
111, which may be beneficial for detecting a position of a user
relative to the band 120; however, other configurations and sensors
are contemplated herein.
FIGS. 3A-3D depict cross-sectional views of the circuit assembly
124 of FIG. 2, taken along line A-A, according to various
configurations. In particular, FIGS. 3A-3D depict the group of
electrical components 128, the substrate 132, the molded structure
136, and the metal layer 140 in various different arrangements that
allow the metal layer 140 to provide an electromagnetic shield for
the group of electrical components 128 and define an electrode
(e.g., a contact pad or sensing element) or other electrical
element that is electrically coupled with the group of electrical
components 128, as described herein. To facilitate the foregoing,
and as described herein with respect to FIG. 2, the metal layer 140
may include the shield portion 144 and the electrode 148, which may
be separated (and electrically isolated) from one another by the
void 152 (e.g., a space or gap).
With reference to FIG. 3A, the circuit assembly 124 is shown in a
first configuration. In the first configuration, the group of
electrical components 128 may be positioned along a surface of the
substrate 132, such as surface 133. The substrate 132 may be a
structural component of the circuit assembly 124, and the surface
133 may be used as a mounting surface or the like to secure the
group of electrical components 128 with the circuit assembly 124.
The substrate 132 may be a printed circuit board, printed circuit,
or other board or sheet having electrical traces that are
configured to electrically couple the group of electrical
components 128 and the substrate 132. The group of electrical
components 128 are depicted in FIG. 3A as including three
electrical components as a sample illustration; more or fewer
electrical components may be included within the circuit assembly
124.
The molded structure 136 may be formed over the surface 133 and the
group of electrical components 128 (and/or a subset or entire group
of electrical components). As shown in FIG. 3A, the molded
structure 136 may encapsulate substantially all of the surface 133
and the group of electrical components 128. In other embodiments,
however, the molded structure 136 may partially cover the group of
electrical components 128 and/or the surface 133. The molded
structure 136 need not be a continuous structure along the
substrate 132, but rather, in some cases, may be multiple discrete
molded structures that form the molded structure 136.
The metal layer 140 may be positioned along, on or over the molded
structure 136 opposite the surface 133. As such, the molded
structure 136 may physically separate the metal layer 140 and the
group of electrical components 128 and/or the substrate 132. This
may help electrically isolate portions of the metal layer 140
(e.g., shield portion 144) from the group of electrical components
128 and/or the substrate 132. The metal layer 140 may define voids
152 (e.g., spaces or gaps) that separate the shield portion 144
from the electrode 148 along the surface of the molded structure
136.
As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 3A, the electrode 148 of the
metal layer 140 may also be separated from the group of electrical
components 128 by the molded structure 136. The electrode 148 and
the group of electrical components 128 may be physically separated
while being electrically coupled to one another. For example, the
electrode 148 and the group of electrical components 128 may be
electrically coupled to one another via a conductive path, via,
terminal, or other circuit, including a flexible circuit (e.g., as
described with respect to FIGS. 3B and 3C). The electrode 148 may
also be electrically coupled to one another using other techniques,
including being capacitively, magnetically, and/or optically
coupled to one another (e.g., as may be the case where the
electrode 148 and the electrical component cooperate to form a
capacitive touch-sensor, among other possibilities). In some cases,
the electrode 148 may be electrically coupled to the substrate 132
without being coupled to one or more of the electrical components
128 of the circuit assembly 124. For example, electrical signals
from the electrode 148 may be passed through the substrate 132 to a
separate component without passing through or being connected to
one or more of the electrical components 128 of the circuit
assembly 124.
With reference to FIG. 3B, the circuit assembly 124 is shown in a
second configuration. In the second configuration, the electrode
148 and the group of electrical components 128 are shown being
electrically coupled using a conductive via 154. The conductive via
154 may form an electrically conductive path through the molded
structure 136. For example, the conductive via 154 may extend from
the electrode 148 (or a region about a periphery of the electrode
148) through the molded structure 136 and to the substrate 132. The
conductive via 154 may be connected with one or more electrical
traces on the substrate 132. As such, electrical signals may be
transmitted between the electrode 148 and the substrate 132 using
or via the substrate 132 and the conductive via 154.
The conductive via 154 may be formed using a variety of techniques
that may produce an electrically conductive path extending through
all, or a portion of, the molded structure 136. In one embodiment,
holes or openings may be formed in the molded structure 136 and a
substantially liquefied or viscous conductive material may be
introduced into the hole or opening of the molded structure 136.
Such material may subsequently be allowed to harden and form the
conductive via 152. As such, it may be desirable to form the
conductive via 152 prior to forming the metal layer 140 over the
molded structure 136; however, this is not required. In other
cases, the conductive via 152 may be a separate post, protrusion,
wire, or the like that is inserted directly into the molded
structure 136 (or corresponding hole or opening extending
therethrough).
With reference to FIG. 3C, the circuit assembly 124 is shown in a
third configuration. In the third configuration, the circuit
assembly 124 is shown having multiple metal layers separated by an
insulating (e.g., non-conductive) layer. For example, the circuit
assembly 124 may include metal layers 140a, 140b that are separated
within the circuit assembly 124 by an insulating layer 142. The
metal layers 140a, 140b may be substantially analogous to the metal
layer 140 described with respect to FIGS. 2-3B in that the metal
layers 140a, 140b may provide an electromagnetic shield for the
group of electrical components 128 and define a contact pad,
sensing element, or other component that is electrically coupled
with the group of electrical components 128. For example, the metal
layer 140a may include a shield portion 144a configured to inhibit
electromagnetic signals and an electrode 148a separated from the
shield portion 144a by a void 152b that is electrically coupled
with the group of electrical components 128. The insulating layer
142 may be any suitable non-conductive material, including silicon,
rubber, various plastics, foam, and so forth.
The arrangement of multiple metal layers, separated by an
insulating layer, may allow the circuit assembly 124 to mitigate
various different levels of electromagnetic interference better
than that of a single metal layer configuration, such as that shown
in the configurations of FIGS. 5A and 5B. For example, the metal
layers 140a, 140b may have distinct material and geometric
parameters that may cooperate with one another to absorb and
reflect a specified level of energy. This may include an embodiment
where the metal layers 140a, 140b exhibit distinct thickness,
electrical conductivities, and/or continuities (including distinct
openings or other geometric features formed therein). As shown in
the embodiment of FIG. 3C, the metal layer 140b may define a series
of voids 152. The voids 152 may be tuned (e.g., sized, shaped,
orientated, and so on) such the metal layers 140a, 140b
collectively inhibit a particular source or predefined level of
electromagnetic interference.
The third configuration of the circuit assembly 124, shown in FIG.
3C, also depicts another technique for electrically coupling an
electrode (such as electrode 148a or any contact pad described
herein) and the group of electrical components 128. In particular,
FIG. 3C shows the electrode 148a and the electrical component
electrically coupled using a flexible circuit 158. The flexible
circuit 158 may form an electrically conductive path around the
molded structure 136. For example, the flexible circuit 158 may be
positioned along the metal layer 140a (electrically connected with
the electrode 148a) and extend along a curve around the molded
structure 136 toward the substrate 132. The flexible circuit 158
may be connected with one or more electrical traces on the
substrate 132. As such, electrical signals may be transmitted
between the electrode 148a and the substrate 132 using or via the
substrate 132 and the flexible circuit 158.
With reference to FIG. 3D, the circuit assembly 124 is shown in a
fourth configuration. In the fourth configuration, the group of
electrical components 128 and the substrate 132 may be partially or
fully encapsulated between various molded and metal layers. The
multiple molded layers may facilitate forming a protective barrier
between the group of electrical components 128 and an external
environment and providing an electromagnetic shield with an
integrated contact pad, as described herein.
In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3D, the circuit assembly may
include molded layers 136a, 136b. The molded layers 136a, 136b may
be substantially analogous to the molded structure 136 described
above with respect to FIG. 2-3C in that the molded layers 136a,
136b may be structural components of the circuit assembly 124 that
partially or fully encapsulate the group of electrical components
128. The first molded structure 136a may be formed along a first
surface 133a of the substrate 132 and partially or fully over one
or more surfaces of the group of electrical components 128. The
second molded structure 136b may be formed along a second surface
133b of the substrate 132, opposite the first surface 133a. In this
regard, the substrate 132 may be positioned directly between the
molded layers 136a, 136b such that the substrate 132 may be fully
encapsulated within a molded material, such as an injection
moldable plastic, in certain embodiments. In other circumstances,
only selected regions of the substrate 132 may be fully
encapsulated within a molded material, for example, which may be
the case where the first molded structure 136a extends over
substantially all of the first surface 133a and the second molded
structure 136b extends over only selective portions or regions of
the second surface 133b.
The circuit assembly 124 of FIG. 3D may also include metal layers
140a, 140b. The metal layers 140a, 140b may be positioned along the
molded layers 136a, 136b respectively. In particular, the metal
layer 140a may be positioned along the molded structure 136a and
the metal layer 140b may be positioned along the molded structure
136b. In this regard, the group of electrical components 128 and
the substrate 132 may be positioned between the metal layers 140a,
140b and partially or full enclosed therein. The metal layers 140a,
140b may cooperate to inhibit electromagnetic interference and
define one or more contact pads, sensing elements, terminals or the
like that are electrically coupled with the group of electrical
components 128. As one possibility, the metal layer 140b may define
or include a shield portion 144b and an electrode 148b. The shield
portion 144b may be electrically isolated from the group of
electrical components 128 and the substrate 132 and configured to
inhibit electromagnetic interference. The electrode 148b may be
electrically coupled with the group of electrical components 128
and used to detect an input associated with an electronic device
(e.g., electronic device 104 of FIG. 1). As shown in FIG. 3D, the
electrode 148b may be electrically coupled to the group of
electrical components 128 via the conductive via 154 which may
extend through the molded structure 136b and electrically connect
the substrate 132 and the electrode 148 according to techniques
described herein; however, other techniques for electrically
coupling the electrode 148b and the group of electrical components
128 are possible.
FIGS. 4A and 4B depict cross-sectional views of the electronic
device 104 and circuit assembly 124, taken along line B-B of FIG.
2. In particular, FIGS. 4A and 4B depict the circuit assembly 124
positioned in various different orientations and configurations
within the enclosure 108 of the electronic device 104. The various
different orientations and configurations described herein may
facilitate use of the circuit assembly 124 and associated contact
pads to detect an input and/or perform a control and/or
communications function of the electronic device 104.
In the embodiments of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the electronic device 104 is
shown as having the display 112 at least partially positioned
within an opening defined in a top surface of the enclosure 108.
The display 112 may be a touch and/or force sensitive display that
is responsive to input received along an exterior surface of the
display 112. The display 112 may be a multi-layered structure
having various components that allow the display 112 to form an
exterior surface of the electronic device 104, display a graphical
output (e.g., an icon, graphic, text, or the like) along the
exterior surface, and/or be responsive to the received touch and/or
force input. As such, as depicted in FIG. 4A, the display 112 may
include a cover layer 112a, a display layer 112b, and a sensing
layer 112c. The cover layer 112a may be a transparent or
translucent structure that forms an exterior surface of the
electronic device 104. Sample materials include sapphire, silica
glass, or the like. The display layer 112b may be a light emitting
layer that includes various components (light emitting diodes
(LEDs), micro-LEDs, a liquid crystal display (LCD), organic light
emitting diode (OLED), fluorescent light, and so on) that emit
light toward the cover layer 112a to render a graphical output
(e.g., an icon, symbol, glyph, graphic, or the like) along the
exterior surface of the cover layer 112a.
The sensing layer 112c may be used to detect a touch and/or force
input received along the display 112 (e.g., along or proximal to
the cover layer 112a). In one embodiment, the sensing layer 112c
may be, or form a component of, a capacitive sensor that uses a
mutual or self-capacitance configuration to detect a touch input
(contact) or proximity of a user relative to the cover layer 112a.
The sensing layer 112c may also form a component of a capacitive
force-sensor to detect a force input (deflection) of the cover
layer 112a inward into the enclosure as the result of a user
input.
In some instances, the sensing layer 112c may be configured to
cooperate with the electrode 148, group of electrical components
128, and/or other components or assemblies of the circuit assembly
and/or the electronic device 104 to detect a slight bending or
deformation of the cover layer 112a caused by a user input using a
change in capacitance measured between the sensing layer 112c and
the cooperating component of the electronic device 104. More
specifically, one or more electrodes of the sensing layer 112c may
be separated from one or more electrodes 148 of the circuit
assembly by an air gap or a compressible layer. When a force is
applied to an external surface of the device 104 (e.g., to a
surface of the display 112), a portion of the device 104 may
deflect and reduce the gap or distance between the sensing layer
112c and the electrodes 148. The change in distance may result in a
change in capacitance between the sensing layer 112c and the
electrodes 148, which may be sensed and correlated to the applied
force. The sensing layer 112c, however, is not limited to
embodiments in which an input is capacitively detected; other
sensors are contemplated herein, including magnetic sensors,
optical sensors, strain sensors, and so on.
As described herein, the electronic device 104 may include multiple
electrical components, assemblies, or the like that may facilitate
a control and/or communication function of the electronic device
104. As depicted in the embodiment of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the
electronic device 104 may include an auxiliary component 114. The
auxiliary component 114 may be representative of one or more of the
multiple electrical components of the electronic device 104 that
may be external to, or otherwise separated from, the circuit
assembly 124. In this regard, it will be appreciated that the
auxiliary component 114 may include substantially any appropriate
electronic (or non-electronic) component configured for use with
the electronic device 104. As described in greater detail below
with respect to FIG. 4B, the circuit assembly 124 and the electrode
148 may be positioned proximate to the auxiliary component 114 in
order to facilitate a control and/or communication function of the
electronic device 104.
In one configuration, the auxiliary component 114 may define, or be
a component of, a communications component or assembly, such as an
antenna of the electronic device 104. For example, the auxiliary
component 114 may be a structure or assembly configured to receive
and/or transmit a wireless communication signal containing data or
other information used to control a function of the electronic
device 104. As such, various components of the electronic device
104 (such as the display 112) may be responsive to, or otherwise
manipulated by, the signal received and/or transmitted by the
auxiliary component 114. The auxiliary component 114 may thus
include or be operably connected to an antenna that is configured
to transmit and receive wireless communication signals. As
described with respect to FIG. 5, the antenna, or any other
component or assembly, may be configured to operate in a particular
set of electromagnetic conditions. In some instances, one or more
elements of the metal layer of the circuit assembly 124 may be
configured to facilitate or optimize the electromagnetic conditions
for an antenna associated with the auxiliary component 114.
Additionally or alternatively, one or more elements of the metal
layer of the circuit assembly 124 may be configured to shield
electronic components of the circuit assembly 124 from
electromagnetic interference generated by the auxiliary component
114 (or any other source or electromagnetic noise or
interference).
Additionally or alternatively, the auxiliary component 114 may
define, or be a component of, a sensing element, such as a position
or proximity sensor of the electronic device 104. For example, the
auxiliary component 114 may be a structure or assembly configured
to detect a position of a user relative to the band 120 and/or the
electronic device 104. This may be accomplished via capacitive,
magnetic, strain, optical and/or other sensing techniques. As one
possibility, the auxiliary component 114 may be an electrode of a
capacitance-based sensor that may use a mutual or self-capacitance
configuration to detect a touch input (contact) and/or proximity of
a user relative to the enclosure 108 (e.g., relative to the
interior surface 111 along which the auxiliary component 114 may be
positioned). This information may be correlated with a known or
given position and/or orientation of the band 120 to estimate the
proximity of position of a user relative to the band 120.
Accordingly, one or more components or assemblies of the electronic
device 104, including the circuit assembly 124 and associated
electrical component (e.g., group of electrical components 128),
may use this information to estimate various associated parameters,
including estimating a user wearing the electronic device 104
(detecting an "on-wrist" configuration), a tightness or pressure of
the electronic device 104 on the user, and/or tilt of the
electronic device 104 relative to a user, among other possible
parameters. Subsequently, various components of the electronic
device 104 (such as display 112) may be responsive to, or otherwise
manipulated by, the parameters or conditions detected by the
auxiliary component 114. As one possibility, icons or graphics
depicted at the display 112 may be manipulated in a particular
manner based on a detection or estimation that the user is wearing
the electronic device 104, the electronic device 104 is being worn
too tight or too loose, the electrical device is tilted, and so
on.
Further, the auxiliary component 114 may define, or be a component
of, a charging assembly, including an inductive and/or hardwired
charging assembly or region of the electronic device 104. For
example, the auxiliary component 114 may be a structure or assembly
configured to detect and receive an electrical charge. The
electrical charge may be received from a variety of external
devices and/or sources and used to charge or recharge a battery or
other power storage component or system of the electronic device
104.
It will be appreciated that the foregoing description of various
embodiments of the auxiliary component 114 is presented for
purposes of illustration only. Rather than be limited to the
foregoing example, the auxiliary component 114 may be substantially
any component of the electronic device 104, including various other
antennas, sensors, switches, processing units, charging assemblies,
and so on. Further, while the auxiliary component 114 is shown in
FIGS. 4A and 4B as being positioned along the interior surface 111,
the auxiliary component 114 may be positioned along any surface of
the electronic device 104, including external surfaces and/or
within or partially within a sidewall defining the enclosure
108.
With reference to FIG. 4A, the electronic device 104 is shown as
having the circuit assembly 124 and the electrode 148 positioned
proximate the display 112. In particular, the electrode 148 may be
positioned proximate the sensing layer 112c. This may allow the
sensing layer 112c and the electrode 148 to cooperate to detect a
touch and/or force input along an exterior surface of the
electronic device 104, such as that defined by the cover layer
112a. In a particular embodiment, the display 112 may be configured
to slightly bend or deflect into the enclosure 108 in response to a
force input received at the cover layer 112a. Accordingly, the
sensing layer 112c and the electrode 148 may be configured to form,
or define various components of, a capacitive-based force sensor.
For example, the sensing layer 112c and the electrode 148 may be
separated by a gap within the enclosure 108. Deflection or bending
of the display 112 may alter a size of the gap, and thus alter a
capacitance measured between the sensing layer 112c and the
electrode 148. The sensing layer 112c and the electrode 148 may
cooperate to detect such alterations in the capacitance. The
alteration in the capacitance may be used by the circuit assembly
124 (or other component or assembly of the electronic device 104)
to estimate a force received along the display 112.
The circuit assembly 124 and the electrode 148 may be positioned
proximate to the display 112 in a variety of other configurations.
For example, the electrode 148 may be used to electrically connect
the display 112 or another associated component to the circuit
assembly 124. Additionally or alternatively, the electrode 148 may
form a sensing element of another type, including an optical,
magnetic, or strain-based sensing element that may or may not be
directly coupled with the display 112. Further, it may be
beneficial to arrange the circuit assembly 124 proximate to the
display 112 for design and packaging considerations of the
electronic device 104 (e.g., arranging the circuit assembly 124
proximate the display 112 may maximize available volume within the
enclosure 108 for other components and assemblies of the electronic
device 104).
With reference to FIG. 4B, the electronic device 104 is shown as
having the circuit assembly 124 and the electrode 148 positioned
proximate the auxiliary component 114. This may allow the electrode
148 and the auxiliary component 114 to cooperate to detect one or
more inputs of the electronic device, including one or more inputs
along a portion of the enclosure 108 and/or those associated with
the band 120 (such as detecting or estimating a position of a user
relative to the band 120). In some cases, the electrode 148 may be
separated from the auxiliary component 114 (as shown in FIG. 4B) in
order to facilitate detecting the input (e.g., as may be the case
where the electrode 148 and the auxiliary component cooperate to
define a capacitance based sensor). In other cases, the electrode
148 and the auxiliary component 114 may be directly electrically
connected. Where the auxiliary component is an antenna (or other
electrical component sensitive to electromagnetic radiation), the
circuit assembly 124 may be configured such that the
electromagnetic shield of the circuit assembly 124 limits
interference with the auxiliary component 114.
FIGS. 5A-5D depict cross-sectional top views of the circuit
assembly 124. In particular, FIG. 5A-5D depict cross-sectional
views of various embodiments of the metal layer 140 and the shield
portion 144 and the electrode 148. As described above, the shield
portion 144 may be configured to limit electromagnetic signals
within the circuit assembly 124 and the electronic device 104. The
electrode 148 may be electrically coupled with an electrical
component (e.g., group of electrical components 128 of FIG. 2) and
used to detect a signal, input, and/or other parameters. The
embodiments of FIGS. 5A-5D depict various different geometries and
configurations of the electrode 148 (and corresponding shield
portion 144) that may be used to detect various different types of
input, for example, by defining various different sensing elements.
The shield portion 144 may also be modified to vary the level of
electromagnetic interference.
With reference to FIG. 5A, the circuit assembly 124 is shown in a
configuration in which the electrode 148 is one of a group of four
contact pads. The group of contact pads may be separated from the
shield portion by the void 152 (e.g., a space or gap). As such, the
void 152 may be shaped to accommodate each of the group of contact
pads (e.g., each of the group of contact pads may be separated from
the shield portion 144, and from one another, by the void 152). The
void 152 may also be shaped to accommodate electrical traces or
other electrically conductive paths that may electrically connect
various elements of the circuit assembly 124.
As shown in embodiment of FIG. 5A, the circuit assembly 124 may
include electrical traces 150. The electrical traces 150 may be
positioned within and/or along the void 152 and remain electrically
isolated or separated from the shield portion 144. For example, the
electrical traces 150 may be formed into a surface of the molded
structure 136 (described with respect to FIG. 2) using an LDS
technique. Additionally or alternatively, the electrical traces 150
may be a separate wire, solder, connector, or other component
positioned along a surface of the molded structure 136 and with the
void 152.
The electrical traces 150 may electrically connect particular ones
of the group of contact pads to one another. The electrical traces
150 may also connect particular ones of the group of electrical
traces to one or more other components of the circuit assembly 124
and/or other components and/or assemblies of the electronic device
104, as may be appropriate for a given application. It will be
appreciated that the particular configuration of the electrical
traces 150 depicted in FIG. 2 is presented for purposes of
illustration only. The electrical traces 150 may be arranged in any
appropriate manner to facilitate an electrical connection with one
or more or all of the group of contact pads. As such, in some
cases, the particular configuration of the electrical traces 148
may be based on the configuration of the particular one of contact
pads (e.g., a different configuration of electrical traces 150 may
be appropriate when the electrode 148 defines a capacitive sensor
as compared to an embodiment where the electrode 148 defines an
antenna, as one example).
With reference to FIG. 5B, the circuit assembly 124 is shown in an
embodiment in which various different voids, openings, holes,
through portions, or the like are selectively defined within the
metal layer 140. This may be used to tune the shield portion 144
and control a level of electromagnetic interference within the
circuit assembly 124 and the electronic device 104. For example, as
described above, the material and geometric properties of the
shield portion 144 may be modified in order to control a level of
energy reflected and absorbed by the shield portion 144, including
factors such as conductivity, thickness, and continuity. In this
regard, the shape of the shield portion 144 may impact the level of
electromagnetic interference within the circuit assembly 124 and
the electronic device 104.
As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 5B, the shield portion includes
voids 152a, 152b, 152c. The voids 152a, 152b, 152c may each be a
distinct shape and size and may cooperate together such that the
shield portion 144 exhibits a predefined characteristic that limits
a specified amount of electromagnetic interference. For example,
the void 152a may be a rectangular shaped opening that surrounds
the electrode 148. The void 152b may be a U-shaped opening that is
positioned at least partially around the void 152a. The void 152c
may be an elongated opening. It will be appreciated that the
particular size and orientation of the voids 152a, 152b, 152c is
presented for purposes of illustration. Other sizes and
orientations are contemplated as may be beneficial to control a
level of electromagnetic interference within the circuit assembly
124 and the electronic device 104.
Selectively controlling a level of electromagnetic interference may
be beneficial, for example, in order to limit, or otherwise define
a level of electromagnetic interference experienced by another
component or assembly of the electronic device 104, such as an
auxiliary component or antenna of the electronic device 104 (e.g.,
auxiliary component 114 of FIGS. 4A and 4B). For example, an
antenna of the electronic device 104, external to, or separated
from, the circuit assembly 124, may be optimally or efficiently
operated at a specified or certain level of electromagnetic
interference. For some antennas, peak efficiency may be achieved in
an environment with a particular amount of electromagnetic
interference; too little or too much electromagnetic interference
and performance may decline. Accordingly, the metal layer 140 may
inhibit electromagnetic signals (e.g., of the circuit assembly 124)
at a level corresponding to the specified level of electromagnetic
interference for the antenna. To illustrate, the voids 152a, 152,
152c may be specifically calibrated to control a level of energy
reflected and absorbed by the shield portion 144 and thus cause the
metal layer to exhibit the resulting characteristics that may
contribute to inhibiting the desired amount of electromagnetic
signals. Furthermore, the shield portion 144 may be grounded,
coupled to a voltage source, or be allowed to electrically float,
depending on the application.
With reference to FIG. 5C, the circuit assembly 124 is shown in a
configuration in which the electrode 148 defines an antenna,
portion of an antenna, or otherwise be configured to facilitate
wireless communications. The antenna may be a component or assembly
formed or positioned along the outer surface of the circuit
assembly 124 (along the molded structure 136) and configured to
receive and/or transmit various wireless signals. The antenna may
be electrically coupled with one or more electrical components of
the circuit assembly 124 (e.g., group of electrical components 128
of FIG. 2). This may allow the circuit assembly 124 to receive the
signals of the antenna and optionally use the signals to control a
function of the electronic device 104. By incorporating the antenna
on the circuit assembly 124, the size or relative footprint of the
control and/or communication components of the electronic device
104 may be reduced.
With reference to FIG. 5D, the circuit assembly 124 is shown in a
configuration in which the electrode 148 defines a strain sensor.
The strain sensor may be a component or assembly formed or
positioned along the outer surface of the circuit assembly 124
(along the molded structure 136) and configured to detect strain
along the outer surface. For example, the circuit assembly 124 may
be momentarily bent or deformed in response to a user input. This
may cause the strain sensor defined by the electrode 148 to
correspondingly elongate or contract. An electrical property of the
electrode 148 may be sensitive to the contraction or elongation.
The electrical property may therefore be measured to estimate the
force input that caused the contraction or elongation. The strain
sensor defined by the electrode 148 may be electrically coupled
with the group of electrical components 128 (or other component) of
the circuit assembly 124. This may allow the electrical component
to cooperate with the electrode 148 to measure the resulting strain
(from the elongation and contraction) and estimate the force input.
By incorporating the strain sensor on the circuit assembly 124, the
size or relative footprint of the control and/or communication
components of the electronic device 104 may be reduced. In other
embodiments, the electrode 148 may define other sensing elements,
as described herein.
FIGS. 6A-7B depict various electronic devices having a circuit
assembly, such as the circuit assembly 124 described herein.
Broadly, a circuit assembly having an electromagnetic shield with
an integrated contact pad may be used in substantially any
appropriate electronic device. The electromagnetic shield may have
a shield portion configured to inhibit electromagnetic interference
within the circuit assembly and corresponding electronic device.
The electromagnetic shield may also have a contact pad, separated
from the shield portion, electrically coupled with an electrical
component of the circuit assembly and used to detect an input
associated with the corresponding electronic device.
FIG. 6A depicts an electronic device 604. The electronic device 604
may be a smart phone. For purposes of illustration, the electronic
device 604 is shown as having an enclosure 608, a display 612, one
or more input/output members 616, and a speaker 618. It should be
noted that the electronic device 604 may include various other
components, such as one or more ports (e.g., charging ports, data
transfer ports, or the like), additionally input/out buttons, and
so on. As such, the discussion of any electronic device, such as
electronic device 604 is meant as illustrative only.
The electronic device 604 may also include a circuit assembly 624
(shown in phantom line). The circuit assembly 624 may be
substantially analogous to the circuit assembly 124 described with
respect to FIGS. 2-5D. For example, the circuit assembly 624 may
have a metal layer or an electromagnetic shield configured to
inhibit electromagnetic interference. The electromagnetic shield
may also include an integrated electrode (e.g., a contact pad or
sensing element) electrically coupled to an electrical component of
the circuit assembly 624 (or other component or assembly of the
electronic device 604) and configured to detect an input associated
with the electronic device 604.
FIG. 6B depicts a cross-sectional view of the electronic device
604, taken along line C-C of FIG. 6A. In particular, FIG. 6B
depicts a cross-sectional view of the circuit assembly 624 within
the electronic device 604. As depicted in FIG. 6B, the circuit
assembly 624 may be positioned within an interior volume 609
defined by the enclosure 608. Analogous to the components described
with respect to the embodiments of FIGS. 2-5D, the circuit assembly
624 may include: a group of electrical components 628; a substrate
632; a molded structure 636; a metal layer 640; a shield portion
644; an electrode 648; and a void 652. The shield portion 644 may
be configured to inhibit electromagnetic interference within the
circuit assembly 624 and the electronic device 604. The electrode
648 may be electrically coupled with the group of electrical
components 628. The electrode 648 may be used to connect the
circuit assembly 624 with another component and/or assembly of the
electronic device 604 and/or define a sensing element configured to
detect one or more inputs associated with the electronic device
604.
FIG. 7A depicts an electronic device 704. The electronic device 704
may be a notebook computer. For purposes of illustration, the
electronic device is shown as having an enclosure 708, a display
712, a key assembly 714, and one or more input/output members 716.
It should be noted that the electronic device 704 may also include
various other components, such as one or more ports (e.g., charging
ports, data transfer ports, or the like), additional input/output
buttons, and so on. As such, the discussion of any electronic
device, such as electronic device 704, is meant as illustrative
only.
The electronic device 704 may also include a circuit assembly 724
(shown in phantom line). The circuit assembly 724 may be
substantially analogous to the circuit assembly 124 described with
respect to FIGS. 2-5D. For example, the circuit assembly 724 may
have an electromagnetic shield or metal layer configured to inhibit
electromagnetic interference. The electromagnetic shield may also
include an integrated contact pad electrically coupled to an
electrical component of the circuit assembly 724 (or other
component or assembly of the electronic device 704) and configured
to detect an input associated with the electronic device 704.
FIG. 7B depicts a cross-sectional view of the electronic device
704, taken along line D-D of FIG. 7A. In particular, FIG. 7B
depicts a cross-sectional view of the circuit assembly 724 within
the electronic device 704. As depicted in FIG. 7B, the circuit
assembly 724 may be positioned within an interior volume 709
defined by the enclosure 708. Analogous to the components described
with respect to the embodiments of FIGS. 2-5D, the circuit assembly
724 may include: a group of electrical components 728; a substrate
732; a molded structure 736; a metal layer 740; a shield portion
744; an electrode 748; and a void 752. The shield portion 744 may
be configured to inhibit electromagnetic interference within the
circuit assembly 724 and the electronic device 704. The electrode
748 may be electrically coupled with the group of electrical
components 728. The electrode 748 may be used to connect the
circuit assembly 724 with another component and/or assembly of the
electronic device 704 and/or define a sensing element configured to
detect one or more inputs associated with the electronic device
704.
To facilitate the reader's understanding of the various
functionalities of the embodiments discussed herein, reference is
now made to the flow diagram in FIG. 8, which illustrates process
800. While specific steps (and orders of steps) of the methods
presented herein have been illustrated and will be discussed, other
methods (including more, fewer, or different steps than those
illustrated) consistent with the teachings presented herein are
also envisioned and encompassed with the present disclosure.
In this regard, with reference to FIG. 8, process 800 relates
generally to forming a circuit assembly. The process 800 may be
used to form or manufacture any of the circuit assemblies described
herein, for example, such as circuit assembly 124, 624, and 724,
and variations and embodiments thereof.
At operation 804, a molded structure may be formed over a group of
electrical components positioned along a printed circuit board. The
molded structure may fully or partially encapsulate the group of
electrical components. For example and with reference to FIGS.
2-3A, the molded structure 136 may be formed over the group of
electrical components 128. The group of electrical components 128
may be positioned along the substrate 132. As such, the molded
structure 136 may be formed over and partially or fully encapsulate
the group of electrical components 128 and the substrate 132.
As described above with respect to FIG. 2, the molded structure 136
may be formed using a variety of techniques and appropriate
materials. For example, the molded structure 136 may be formed from
a moldable or castable material, including injection moldable
plastics, ceramics, synthetics, composites, and so on. Accordingly,
the molded structure 136 may be formed by flowing a substantially
liquefied or viscous material over one or more surfaces of the
circuit assembly 124. For example, material may be introduced into
a form containing the group of electrical components 128 and/or the
substrate 132 and caused to harden or solidify around one or more
surfaces of the group of electrical components 128 and/or the
substrate 132. This may allow the molded structure 136 to
encapsulate the group of electrical components 128 on the surface
of the substrate 132. In some cases, the molded material may be
subsequently cured or hardened, including undergoing a heat or
chemical treatment to cool and/or solidify the molded material
around the group of electrical components 128 and/or the substrate
132.
At operation 808, a metal layer may be formed over a region of the
molded structure. The metal layer may define an electrode
electrically coupled with the group of electrical components. For
example and with reference to FIGS. 2-3A, the metal layer 140 may
be formed over a region of the molded structure 136. This may be
accomplished by a sputtering or other physical vapor deposition
technique, as described herein. The metal layer 140 may define the
shield portion 144 and the electrode 148, which may be separated
from one another along the molded structure 136 by a void 152. The
electrode 148 may be electrically coupled with the group of
electrical components 128. The shield portion 144 may be configured
to inhibit electromagnetic signals.
As described above with respect to FIG. 2, the metal layer 140
(including the shield portion 144 and the electrode 148) may be
formed and/or positioned along the molded structure 136 using a
variety of techniques and various materials. For example, the
shield portion 144 and the electrode 148 may be formed directly on
or along a surface of the molded structure 136 opposite the
substrate 132 by a deposition technique, including a sputter
deposition or other physical vapor deposition process or technique.
As such, a masking layer may be used to define the voids 152
separating the shield portion 144 and the electrode 148; however,
this is not required. The voids 152 may be etched or excavated as
needed to define the various features. Printing, coating, or
plating may also be appropriate to apply the metal layer 140.
Additionally or alternatively, as described above, the molded
structure 136 may be formed from a metal-doped plastic material. As
such, in some embodiments, the metal layer 140 may be formed from
the metal-doped plastic material of the molded structure 136 by
using a laser direct structuring (LDS) technique. In other cases,
the metal layer 140 may be a separate substrate, film, sheet, or
other layer applied to a target surface or region of the molded
structure 136. In other cases, other techniques are possible.
FIG. 9 presents a functional block diagram 900 of a sample
electronic device, such as the electronic device 104 described with
respect to FIGS. 1-5D. It will be appreciated, however, that the
functional block diagram described herein of electronic device 104
may include components substantially analogous to components of
other electronic devices or the like described herein. In this
regard, the schematic representation in FIG. 9 may correspond to
the electronic device depicted in FIGS. 1-5D, described above.
However, the schematic representation in FIG. 9 may also correspond
to the other electronic devices or the like described herein, for
example, such as electronic devices 604 and 704 described with
respect to FIGS. 6A-7B. The electronic device 104 may include any
appropriate hardware (e.g., computing devices, data centers,
switches), software (e.g., applications, system programs, engines),
network components (e.g., communication paths, interfaces, routers)
and the like (not necessarily shown in the interest of clarity) for
use in facilitating any appropriate operations disclosed
herein.
As shown in FIG. 9, the electronic device 104 may include a
processing unit 908 operatively connected to computer memory 912
and computer-readable media 916. The processing unit 908 may be
operatively connected to the computer memory 912 and
computer-readable media 916 components via an electronic bus or
bridge (e.g., such as system bus 910). The processing unit 908 may
include one or more computer processors or microcontrollers that
are configured to perform operations in response to
computer-readable instructions. The processing unit 908 may be a
central processing unit of the electronic device 104. Additionally
or alternatively, the processing unit 908 may be other processors
within the device including application specific integrated chips
(ASIC) and other microcontroller devices.
The computer memory 912 may include a variety of types of
non-transitory computer-readable storage media, including, for
example, read access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable
programmable memory (e.g., EPROM and EEPROM), or flash memory. The
memory 912 is configured to store computer-readable instructions,
sensor values, and other persistent software elements.
Computer-readable media 916 may also include a variety of types of
non-transitory computer-readable storage media including, for
example, a hard-drive storage device, a solid state storage device,
a portable magnetic storage device, or other similar device. The
computer-readable media 916 may also be configured to store
computer-readable instructions, sensor values, and other persistent
software elements.
In this example, the processing unit 908 is operable to read
computer-readable instructions stored on the computer memory 912
and/or computer-readable media 916. The computer-readable
instructions may adapt the processing unit 908 to perform the
operations or functions described above with respect to FIGS.
1A-12C. The computer-readable instructions may be provided as a
computer-program product, software application, or the like. It
should be appreciated that, where the electronic device 104 is a
stylus, the processing unit 908 may be located in an electronic
device associated with the stylus, rather than the stylus itself.
In such embodiments, data may be transmitted from the stylus to and
from the electronic device, such that the processing unit in the
electronic device may operatively control the stylus.
As shown in FIG. 9, the electronic device 104 may also include a
display 918. The display 918 may include a liquid-crystal display
(LCD), organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, light emitting
diode (LED) display, or the like. If the display 918 is an LCD, the
display may also include a backlight component that can be
controlled to provide variable levels of display brightness. If the
display 918 is an OLED or LED type display, the brightness of the
display 918 may be controlled by modifying the electrical signals
that are provided to display elements.
The electronic device 104 may also include a battery 924 that is
configured to provide electrical power to the components of the
electronic device 104. The battery 924 may include one or more
power storage cells that are linked together to provide an internal
supply of electrical power. In this regard, the battery 924 may be
a component of a power source 928 (e.g., including a charging
system or other circuitry that supplies electrical power to
components of the electronic device 104). The battery 924 may be
operatively coupled to power management circuitry that is
configured to provide appropriate voltage and power levels for
individual components or groups of components within the electronic
device 104. The battery 924, via power management circuitry, may be
configured to receive power from an external source, such as an AC
power outlet or interconnected computing device. The battery 924
may store received power so that the electronic device 104 may
operate without connection to an external power source for an
extended period of time, which may range from several hours to
several days.
The electronic device 104 may also include one or more sensors 940
that may be used to detect a touch and/or force input,
environmental condition, orientation, position, or some other
aspect of the electronic device 104. Example sensors 940 that may
be included in the electronic device 104 may include, without
limitation, one or more accelerometers, gyrometers, inclinometers,
goniometers, or magnetometers. The sensors 940 may also include one
or more proximity sensors, such as a magnetic hall-effect sensor,
inductive sensor, capacitive sensor, continuity sensor, or the
like. In some implementations, one or more of the sensors 940 may
include or be configured to operate in conjunction with an
electrode of a metal layer of a circuit assembly, as described
herein. For example, an electrode of the metal layer may for a
sensing element for a touch and/or force sensor that is configured
to detect an input along a surface of the device 104.
The sensors 940 may also be broadly defined to include wireless
positioning devices including, without limitation, global
positioning system (GPS) circuitry, Wi-Fi circuitry, cellular
communication circuitry, and the like. The electronic device 104
may also include one or more optical sensors including, without
limitation, photodetectors, photosensors, image sensors, infrared
sensors, or the like. In one example, the sensor 940 may be an
image sensor that detects a degree to which an ambient image
matches a stored image. As such, the sensor 940 may be used to
identify a user of the electronic device 104. The sensors 940 may
also include one or more acoustic elements, such as a microphone
used alone or in combination with a speaker element. The sensors
940 may also include a temperature sensor, barometer, pressure
sensor, altimeter, moisture sensor or other similar environmental
sensor. The sensors 940 may also include a light sensor that
detects an ambient light condition of the electronic device
104.
The sensor 940, either alone or in combination, may generally be a
motion sensor that is configured to determine an orientation,
position, and/or movement of the electronic device 104. For
example, the sensor 940 may include one or more motion sensors
including, for example, one or more accelerometers, gyrometers,
magnetometers, optical sensors, or the like to detect motion. The
sensors 940 may also be configured to determine one or more
environmental conditions, such as temperature, air pressure,
humidity, and so on. The sensors 940, either alone or in
combination with other input, may be configured to estimate a
property of a supporting surface including, without limitation, a
material property, surface property, friction property, or the
like.
The electronic device 104 may also include a camera 932 that is
configured to capture a digital image or other optical data. The
camera 932 may include a charge-coupled device, complementary metal
oxide (CMOS) device, or other device configured to convert light
into electrical signals. The camera 932 may also include one or
more light sources, such as a strobe, flash, or other
light-emitting device. As discussed above, the camera 932 may be
generally categorized as a sensor for detecting optical conditions
and/or objects in the proximity of the electronic device 104.
However, the camera 932 may also be used to create photorealistic
images that may be stored in an electronic format, such as JPG,
GIF, TIFF, PNG, raw image file, or other similar file types.
The electronic device 104 may also include a communication port 944
that is configured to transmit and/or receive signals or electrical
communication from an external or separate device. The
communication port 944 may be configured to couple to an external
device via a cable, adaptor, or other type of electrical connector.
In some embodiments, the communication port 944 may be used to
couple the electronic device 104 with a computing device and/or
other appropriate accessories configured to send and/or receive
electrical signals. The communication port 944 may be configured to
receive identifying information from an external accessory, which
may be used to determine a mounting or support configuration. For
example, the communication port 944 may be used to determine that
the electronic device 104 is coupled to a mounting accessory, such
as a particular type of stand or support structure.
Other examples and implementations are within the scope and spirit
of the disclosure and appended claims. For example, features
implementing functions may also be physically located at various
positions, including being distributed such that portions of
functions are implemented at different physical locations. Also, as
used herein, including in the claims, "or" as used in a list of
items prefaced by "at least one of" indicates a disjunctive list
such that, for example, a list of "at least one of A, B, or C"
means A or B or C or AB or AC or BC or ABC (i.e., A and B and C).
Further, the term "exemplary" does not mean that the described
example is preferred or better than other examples.
The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, uses
specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the
described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled
in the art that the specific details are not required in order to
practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing
descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are
presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are
not targeted to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the
precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary
skill in the art that many modifications and variations are
possible in view of the above teachings.
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